As part of its efforts to strengthen naval air power, India is pursuing the development of a carrier-based stealth combat drone under the Naval Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (NUCAV) program. The project is expected to build upon the technological foundation established by the domestically developed Ghatak unmanned aircraft initiative.
According to media reports, the future platform will be designed to perform multiple mission roles, including offensive strike operations, defensive engagements, reconnaissance missions, and aerial refueling. The program represents an important step toward expanding the Indian Navy’s use of next-generation autonomous systems in carrier-based operations.
